Yamaha Marine has expanded its technical school partnership program with the opening of the Marine Technology building at National Park College in Hot Springs, Ark.
The 7,500-square-foot facility opened January 30 and it includes a classroom and workshop space.
“Yamaha maintains a strong commitment to developing the next generation of marine technicians and answering the industry’s call for highly trained workforce,” Joe Maniscalco, division manager, Yamaha Marine Service, said in a statement. “We’re proud to work with NPC to give students the skills and network they need to pursue a career in the marine industry with high growth potential.”
In addition to a technical certification in marine repair, the NPC marine technology program offers students certification in Yamaha’s introduction to outboard systems course. Once a student graduates, Yamaha will work with him/her to find an apprenticeship at a dealer. The student can then continue his/her education and work toward becoming a master technician.
The new building at the school is equipped with the resources students need to learn about current equipment. NPC has also established relationships with local businesses that have donated boats and engines for students to use during training.
“Students are going to benefit from this program,” Dr. John Hogan, president of National Park College, said in the statement. “Generations are going to benefit from this program. It’s worth the investment and that’s what we want to continue to do.”
